India's state-owned power giant, NTPC Ltd, is aggressively pursuing international partnerships in technology and fuel to realize its ambitious nuclear energy plans, marking a significant shift from its thermal power origins. The company aims to establish approximately 30 gigawatts (GW) of company-owned nuclear projects across the country, aligning with the national goal of achieving 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047.
Global Collaborations for Advanced Nuclear Technology
To fast-track its nuclear foray, NTPC has initiated talks with leading global energy players. The company has signed non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with Russia's Rosatom and France's EDF to explore collaboration on deploying large pressurized water reactor projects within India. These partnerships are crucial for accessing cutting-edge reactor technology.
Simultaneously, NTPC is exploring a future for small modular reactors (SMRs) in partnership with Holtec International. SMRs are seen as the next frontier in nuclear technology, offering benefits like modular construction, enhanced safety protocols, and the flexibility of phased deployment, making them suitable for diverse locations.
Strategic Investments and Innovative Fuel
Beyond reactors, NTPC is looking at the fuel cycle. The company is evaluating a minority equity investment in US-based Clean Core Thorium Energy (CCTE) as a strategic, early-stage move. This investment is subject to due diligence and regulatory approvals. CCTE has developed a patented nuclear fuel called ANEEL, which is a blend of thorium and enriched uranium.
A key claim is that ANEEL fuel is compatible with India's existing fleet of pressurized heavy water reactors (PHWRs), also known as CANDU reactors. This compatibility could potentially enhance the efficiency and sustainability of current nuclear assets without requiring major redesigns.
Site Identification and Near-Term Goals
On the ground, NTPC is actively scouting for land in several states, including Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh, to host its future nuclear sites. The final locations will be confirmed after securing necessary approvals from the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB).
Sources indicate that the company has set a near-term target, eyeing an initial 2 GW of nuclear capacity as early as 2032. This phased approach allows for gradual scaling of expertise and infrastructure.
NTPC's nuclear ambitions are already in motion through a joint venture with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL). The JV is setting up a major nuclear project in Rajasthan with an investment of about ₹42,000 crore. The company's accelerated plans have been buoyed by recent legislative changes aimed at attracting more investment into India's nuclear energy sector.
Established in 1975 primarily as a thermal power generator, NTPC has diversified significantly. The NTPC group now boasts an installed capacity of over 85,000 MW from coal, gas, hydro, and solar sources. Its bold push into nuclear energy represents a strategic pillar for national energy security and decarbonization.
